Peridot is considered one of the oldest precious gems. At 4.5 billion years old, peridot is made up of the remnants from our solar system’s birth— found in pallasite meteorites, as well as in lava and deep in the Earth’s mantle. Peridot is found in medieval churches, was collected during the Crusades, desperately sought during the Baroque period, and was once given by Napoleon to Josephine as a symbol of his undying love. Ancient Romans referred to the peridot as “Evening Emerald” because unlike the deep hues of emeralds, peridot did not darken at night and still shimmered under candlelight. Peridot is the birthstone for August and the 15th wedding anniversary gemstone.

Peridot is considered one of the oldest precious gems. At 4.5 billion years old, peridot is made up of the remnants from our solar system’s birth— found in pallasite meteorites, as well as in lava and deep in the Earth’s mantle. Peridot is found in medieval churches, was collected during the Crusades, desperately sought during the Baroque period, and was once given by Napoleon to Josephine as a symbol of his undying love. Ancient Romans referred to the peridot as “Evening Emerald” because unlike the deep hues of emeralds, peridot did not darken at night and still shimmered under candlelight. Peridot is the birthstone for August and the 15th wedding anniversary gemstone.